Go Mediterranean to Avoid Strokes

A startling 795,000 strokes occur per year in the U.S., according to the Society for Vascular Surgery. In order to decrease chances of stroke, vascular surgeon Dr. Donna Mendes, advises adopting aspects of the Mediterranean diet, such as swapping in canola oil for butter or margarine. The diet can lower “bad” LDL cholesterol that can build up in the arteries, increasing the risk of stroke. Other tips include consuming a daily handful of healthy nuts, choosing low-fat dairy products, and replacing salt with herbs and spices.